As we count down to our Bar Shorts: Graphic Novel Special on Saturday 18th April, we’re thrilled to welcome an exceptional line‑up of guests: Lucy Sullivan, Astrid Goldsmith, Greg McLeod, and Chris Shepherd.
We can now reveal the full programme of films that will open the event. The evening begins with one hour of short films, showcasing a range of distinctive voices and approaches in contemporary animation.
Film Programme
- Short Films – Lucy Sullivan (various years) — 11 mins
- Hometime – Matt Latchford and Lucy Sullivan – 5 mins
- The Thing with Feathers (Trailer) – Lucy Sullivan (2025) — 2 mins
- The Ringer – Chris Shepherd (2013) — 17 mins
- Quarantine – Astrid Goldsmith (2018) — 10 mins
- Last Lines – Greg McLeod (2025) — 5 mins
- Mee and Burd – Greg McLeod (2024) — 8 mins
The afternoon features award‑winning animator and model‑maker Astrid Goldsmith author of The Crystal Vase. Astrid’s debut graphic had already been critically claimed and explores the world of family. Graphic novel stalwart Lucy Sullivan whose amazing book, Barking, explores mental health. It’s artwork went onto to become inspiration for Dylan Southern’s film adaption of Max Porter’s The Thing With Feathers. The storyteller, Greg McLeod, part of the duo The Brothers McLeod will be taking about his debut graphic novel which he is currently Kickstarting called The Existential Musings of Mee and Burd. Finally Writer and director Chris Shepherd, the author of Anfield Road and Bar Shorts co-creator will be sharing the creative leaps, stumbles, and revelations that shaped their journeys from animated filmmaking to graphic narrative.
Across the afternoon, guests will screen a selection of their short films before diving into the worlds of their graphic novels — discussing character, structure, world‑building, and the surprising ways animation informs the drawn page (and vice versa). Expect candid stories, practical insights, and the kind of creative honesty Bar Shorts is known for. A rare chance to see how animators reinvent themselves as authors — and how stories transform when they shift medium. An afternoon for filmmakers, illustrators, readers, and anyone who loves watching creativity evolve.
This is a rare chance to hear from some of the most exciting multi‑disciplinary storytellers working today. If you’re interested in the craft of graphic novels, animation, or the creative process that links them, this event is not to be missed. Tickets here:
